System and method for fuel monitoring and spill prevention

ABSTRACT

A system, methods, and apparatus for preventing receptacle overfilling are presented. The system can include a sensor member configured to couple with a receptacle and sense a material level within the receptacle, such as via a sight glass of the receptacle. The system can include a controller in operable communication with the sensor member and configured to instantiate the shutoff of material flow from a material dispensing system if a particular material level is detected by the sensor member. The system can include an intermediate member configured to relay communications between the sensor member and the controller. The intermediate member can be coupled to a fluid line and can further act as a holster for the sensor member, such as by facilitating the coupling of the sensor member to the intermediate member and/or the fluid line.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Divisional application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/405,381, filed Aug. 18, 2021, which isincorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to fluid monitoring systems,and more specifically to apparatuses, systems, and methods forpreventing the overfill of receptacles, such as fuel tanks.

BACKGROUND

Overfilling of receptacles can pose a significant problem for a myriadof industries. For example, for companies in the business ofmanufacturing and/or distributing toxic chemicals, overfilling achemical container can lead to expensive and hazardous cleanup, fines,sanctions, and other potential consequences. Such spillage also causessignificant waste of otherwise valuable material.

Overfilling is also a problem in vehicle industries. Trains, planes, andautomobiles all rely on fuel, often liquid fuel, that must be conveyedfrom a fuel source to a receptacle, such as a fuel tank ortransportation tankard, to be utilized. Vehicle fuel tanks (and thecontainers used to ship vehicle fuel) can be gargantuan—for example, acommon diesel locomotive can have a fuel tank capacity of five thousandgallons. The need to fill such large volumes in a timely manner requiressignificantly increased flow rate as compared to, for example, a gasstation pump used to fill personal vehicles. Because of this increasedflow rate, the amount of spillage from overfilling can be greatlyexacerbated simply because the amount of fuel that can be expelled inthe same time frame as compared to, again, a regular gas stationdispenser, is much larger. While some industrial fueling systems haveautomatic shutoff functionality (e.g., a fuel-sensitive nozzle), thisfunctionality can be greatly hindered by common practices in theindustry. For example, many industrial fuel dispensing systems do nothave the lever-lock functionality found in gas station pumps, meaningthat personnel will often jam the lever into the nozzle handle tomaintain a flow while other work is performed. As such, the flow cancontinue well after the fuel tank is full.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure achieves technical advantages as a system andmethod for fuel monitoring and spill prevention. For example, a fluiddispensing system capable of automatically terminating fuel flow bymonitoring a sight glass of a receptacle with a sensor is disclosed. Inone embodiment, the system can include a controller configured tocommunicate with one or more valves integrated with the system betweenthe fuel source location of dispensing, enabling the system toautomatically close a valve if a particular fluid level in thereceptacle is reached. In another embodiment, the present disclosure canprovide a receptacle system that can be configured to preventoverfilling, such as by implementing a sensor proximate a sight glass ofthe receptacle to generate a signal if a material level is detected. Itis an object of the present disclosure to provide a method to preventoverfilling by utilizing sight glasses of receptacles in a novel way,such as by providing an apparatus configured to automate sight glassmonitoring and communicate with a dispensing system to terminatematerial dispensing.

In one embodiment, a fluid dispensing system can comprise: a fluid lineoperably coupled with a fluid source and configured to dispense fluidfrom the fluid source via a first end of the fluid line; at least onevalve configured to regulate dispensing of fluid from the fluid source;a sensor member configured to couple to a receptacle and detect a fluidlevel within the receptacle; and a controller in operable communicationwith the sensor member, the controller configured to receive a signalgenerated via the sensor member and initiate operation of the valve inresponse to receiving the signal. Further including a nozzle operablycoupled to the first end of the fluid line and configured to dispensefluid. Wherein the at least one valve is disposed between the fluidsource and the first end of the fluid line. Wherein the valve isdisposed within the nozzle. Wherein the sensor member is configured todetect the fluid level within the receptacle via a sight glass of thereceptacle. Further including an intermediate member coupled to thefluid line. Wherein the intermediate member is in operable communicationwith at least one of the sensor member and the controller. Wherein theintermediate member is configured to facilitate coupling of the sensormember to the fluid line. Wherein the intermediate member is configuredto receive the signal from the sensor member and transmit the signal ora derivative thereof to the controller. Wherein the sensor memberincludes a support configured to abut the sight glass.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure can include a sight glassmonitor apparatus comprising: a support member including a front sideand a back side, the support member configured to couple to a receptaclehaving a sight glass; a sensor having a front portion and coupled to thesupport member; and a controller in operable communication with thesensor and configured to receive one or more signals from the sensor,wherein the sensor is configured to detect a level of a material in thereceptacle via the sight glass. Wherein the support member includes ahandle. Wherein the support member includes a base portion having anopening. Wherein the front portion of the sensor is positioned to facetoward the back side of the support member through the opening. Whereinthe support member is configured to magnetically couple to thereceptacle. Wherein the support member further includes a hinged braceconfigured to abut the receptacle.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure can include a method ofmonitoring a level of material in a receptacle, and the method cancomprise the steps of: orienting a sensor relative to a sight glass,wherein the sensor is configured to detect a material within thereceptacle via the sight glass; depositing a material within thereceptacle; generating at least one signal via the sensor in response todetection of the material; and transmitting the at least one signal.Further including the step of terminating the depositing of materialinto the receptacle in response to the signal. Wherein the signal is analert. Further including the step of receiving the at least one signalvia a controller. Further including the step of initiating, via thecontroller, termination of the depositing of the material in response tothe signal. Wherein the controller is configured to initiate operationof a valve to prevent depositing of the material into the receptacle.Wherein the material is fuel.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure can include a receptaclesystem for preventing overfilling, and the system can comprise: areceptacle having an interior, an exterior, and a sight glass configuredto provide a view of the interior of the receptacle from the exterior ofthe receptacle; a sensor disposed proximate the exterior of thereceptacle and configured to detect a material on the interior of thereceptacle via the sight glass; and a controller in operablecommunication with the sensor and configured to receive at least onesignal from the sensor. Wherein the controller, in response to the atleast one signal, is configured to generate an alert. Wherein thecontroller, in response to the at least one signal, is furtherconfigured to initiate shutoff of fluid dispensing to the receptacle.Wherein the sensor is operably coupled to a support member configured tosupport the sensor proximate the exterior of the receptacle. Furthercomprising an intermediate member in operable communication with thesensor and the controller. Wherein the intermediate member is coupled toa fuel line. Wherein the intermediate member is configured to receivethe sensor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be readily understood by the followingdetailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings that illustrate, by way of example, the principles of thepresent disclosure. The drawings illustrate the design and utility ofone or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, in whichlike elements are referred to by like reference numbers or symbols. Theobjects and elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale,proportion, or precise positional relationship. Instead, emphasis isfocused on illustrating the principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate perspective views of a fluid dispensing system inaccordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 2A-2L illustrate perspective and schematic views of a sight glassmonitor apparatus in accordance with one or more exemplary embodimentsof the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an intermediate member inaccordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary control panel in accordance with one ormore exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of method of fueling a vehicle inaccordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The preferred version of the disclosure presented in the followingwritten description and the various features and advantageous detailsthereof, are explained more fully with reference to the non-limitingexamples included in the accompanying drawings and as detailed in thedescription, which follows. Descriptions of well-known components havebeen omitted so to not unnecessarily obscure the principal featuresdescribed herein. The examples used in the following description areintended to facilitate an understanding of the ways in which thedisclosure can be implemented and practiced. Accordingly, these examplesshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

FIG. 1A-1C illustrate perspective views of a fluid dispensing system 100in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Inone embodiment, the fluid dispensing system 100 can include a fluiddispensing crane 102. For example, the fluid dispensing crane 102 can beand/or be similar to a fueling crane known in the art. In anotherembodiment, the system 100 can include a fluid line 104. In oneembodiment, the fluid line 104 can be a hose, tube, line, or any conduitsuitable to transport a fluid from one location to another location. Inanother embodiment, fluid line 104 can be rubber, polymer, or any othersuitable material. In another embodiment, the fluid line 104 can includea first end 126 that fluid can flow out of. In another embodiment, thefirst end 126 can be coupled with a nozzle 106. For example, nozzle 106can include a nozzle and a fluid flow control handle and/or lever, suchas fueling nozzles known in the art. In another embodiment, the nozzle106 can be any nozzle suitable to facilitate the dispensing of fluidfrom the fluid line 104.

In another embodiment, the fluid dispensing system 100 can be configuredwith an automatic shut off functionality. In one embodiment, the fluiddispensing system 100 can include a sensor member 108. In oneembodiment, the sensor member 108 can be configured to detect a fluidlevel within a receptacle (e.g., receptacle 124). For example, thesensor member 108 can be configured to couple with a receptacle 124 andsense a fluid level within. For example, the sensor member 108 can beconfigured to utilize vibrations to determine a fluid level within areceptacle. In another embodiment, the sensor member 108 can beconfigured to utilize light, acoustics, or any other suitable sensingmechanism to determine a fluid level. For example, the sensor member 108can be configured to utilize infrared light to detect fluid through asight glass 122. In one exemplary embodiment, the sensor member 108 canbe configured to couple with the receptacle 124 and detect a fluid levelwithin the receptacle 124 via a sight glass (e.g., sight glass 122) ofthe receptacle. In one embodiment, a sight glass 122 can include a lensthrough which the interior of a receptacle 124 can be seen from theexterior of the receptacle 124. In another embodiment, a sight glass 122can be any structure on a receptacle 124 that can enable a view of afluid level within the receptacle 124. In one embodiment, the sensormember 108 can be configured to couple proximate a sight glass 122 andutilize optical sensing mechanisms to detect a fluid level through thesight glass 122.

In another embodiment, the fluid dispensing system 100 can include anintermediate member 110. In one embodiment, the intermediate member canbe coupled with the fluid line 104. In another embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can be coupled with the fuel crane 102. Inanother embodiment, the intermediate member 110 can facilitate couplingof the sensor member 108 to the fluid line 104. For example, theintermediate member 110 can be configured to receive the sensor member108 via a bracket, screws, bolts, magnets, adhesive, or any othermechanism suitable to enable the intermediate member 110 to receiveand/or support the sensor member 108. In one embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can include a magnetically-active material suchthat one or more magnets of the sensor member 108 can magneticallyattach to the intermediate member 110. In another embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can include magnets that can couple to amagnetically-active material of the sensor member 108.

In one embodiment, the intermediate member of 110 can include acontroller configured to receive one or more signals from the sensormember 108. For example, the intermediate member 110 can house one ormore processors, one or more memory, or any other components suitable toenable the intermediate member 110 to receive and/or process signalsgenerated by the sensor member 108. In another embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can be configured to relay one or more signalsgenerated by the sensor member 108 to a controller. For example, acontroller can be housed in a control panel 116 that can be coupled tothe fluid dispensing crane 102. In one embodiment, the sensor member 108can be configured to generate a signal and transmit the signal to theintermediate member 110 via cable 112. In another embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can be configured to receive a signal from thesensor member 108 and forward such signal to a controller in the controlpanel 116, such as via cable 118. In another embodiment, the sensormember 108, intermediate member 110, and/or control panel 116 and/orcontroller can be configured to communicate wirelessly. In anotherembodiment, the sensor member 108, intermediate member 110, and/orcontrol panel 116 and/or controller can be configured to communicate viaany suitable communications protocol, including Bluetooth, Ethernet,TCP/IP, UDP, or any other suitable protocol. In one embodiment, theintermediate member 110 can be configured to amplify a signal generatedby the sensor member of 108, such that the signal can be received and/orread by a controller located within the control panel 116.

In another embodiment, a controller of the fluid dispensing system 100can be configured to communicate and/or control components of the fluiddispensing crane 102. For example, the controller of the system 100 canbe configured to operate a valve located within the crane. For example,fluid dispensing crane 102 can include a valve disposed between a fluidsource and the first end 126 of the fluid line 104. In one embodiment,the controller of the system 100 can be configured to operate the valvein response to one or more signals generated via the sensor member 108.In another embodiment, a valve can be located in the nozzle 106, and acontroller of the system 100 can be configured to operate the valve. Inanother embodiment, the controller of the system 100 can be configuredto communicate with any electronics or other components of the fluiddispensing crane 102, such as to indicate to the fluid dispensing crane102 that a valve should be opened and/or closed. For example, thecontroller can receive a signal from the sensor member 108 indicatingthat a fluid has not been detected at a particular level withinreceptacle 124, and the controller can facilitate the opening of a valveto allow materials to be dispensed into the receptacle 124. In anotherexample, the controller can receive another signal from the sensormember of 108 indicating that fluid has been detected at a particularlevel within the receptacle 124, and the controller can facilitate theclosing of the valve to terminate the dispensing of materials into thereceptacle 124. In one exemplary embodiment, the controller of thesystem 100 can be configured to shut off fluid flow via the fluid line104 such that a receptacle is not overfilled. For example, the sensormember 108 can be coupled to a sight glass 122 of a receptacle 124 anddetect when a fluid level reaches a particular point, and therebygenerate a signal that the controller of the system 100 can utilize toinstantiate termination of the depositing of a material into thereceptacle.

In one exemplary embodiment, the fluid dispensing system 100 can beconfigured and/or utilized to fuel a locomotive 120. For example, thelocomotive 120 can include a receptacle (e.g., fuel tank) 124 that caninclude a sight glass 122. Before beginning to dispense fuel to the fueltank 124, the sensor member 108 can be coupled to the sight glass 122,such that the sensor member 108 can determine a fluid level within thereceptacle 124. In one embodiment, if the sensor member 108 does notdetect fluid via the sight glass 122, the sensor member 108 can generatea signal indicating to a controller of the system 100 that fluid can bedispensed. In one embodiment, the intermediate member 110 can furtherinclude an indicator 128 that can indicate whether the system 100 isready to dispense fluid. In one embodiment, the indicator 128 can be alight, a speaker, or any other component suitable to indicate the statusof the system 100 and/or receptacle 124. In another embodiment, as thefuel tank 124 fills up, the sensor member 108 can continue to monitorthe fluid level in the tank 124 via the sight glass 122. In anotherembodiment, if the sensor member 108 detects fluid within the tank 124,the sensor member 108 can generate a signal that can inform thecontroller of the system 100 that fluid dispensing should be terminated.

In one embodiment, the sensor member 108 can communicate with theintermediate member 110 via a 635 nm wavelength (or other suitablewavelength) visible red fiber optic signal (or other suitable signal).In another embodiment, the intermediate member 110 can generate a signalin response to an indication from the sensor member 108, such as viaBanner DF-G3 Long Range Expert™ dual display fiber amplifier or othersuitable amplifier. In another embodiment, the intermediate member 110can communicate with the controller and/or control panel 116 via a24-volt DC output (or any other suitable output) which can be triggeredby the threshold setting of the amplifier of the intermediate member110. In another embodiment, the output of the amplifier of theintermediate member 110 can be used to drive a relay contact (e.g., a 24VDC relay contact) which can initiate a stop fueling signal or othersuitable signal via the controller and/or control panel 116. In anotherembodiment, a sensing threshold of the sensor member 108 can be set at2000 nm (or any other suitable limit). For example, readings from thesensor member 108 in the range of 0 to 2000 nm (or in any other range)can cause an output (e.g., from the intermediate member 110) to be offand indicate that fuel is sensed, instantiating termination of fluiddispensing. In another example, readings by the sensor member 108 in therange of 2001 to 9999 nm (or in any other range) can cause an output tobe on and indicate that no fuel is sensed, meaning that fluid cancontinue to be dispensed. In another embodiment, full range signal levelon an amplifier in an intermediate member 110 can be 0 to 9999 nm, orany other suitable range. In another embodiment, a gap distance can bemaintained between a sensor of the sensor member 108 and, e.g., a sightglass 122 of the receptacle 124. For example, a gap distance can bedependent on sight glass style. In another example, the distance from,e.g., a sensor lens to sight glass can vary from 6 mm to 12 mm, or othersuitable distance.

FIGS. 2A-2L illustrate perspective and schematic views of a sight glassmonitor apparatus 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of thepresent disclosure. The apparatus 200 can include a support member 202having a front side 204 and a back side 206. The support member 202 canbe a frame, a housing, a casing, a bracket, or any other design suitableto lend structure to the apparatus 200 and/or facilitate the coupling ofthe apparatus 200 to a receptacle. In another embodiment, the supportmember 202 can include a handle (handle member) 210. The handle 210 canbe rectangular, circular, triangular, rounded, angular, or any otherconfiguration suitable to allow the support member 202 to be gripped. Inanother embodiment, the support number 202 can include a base portion212. In one embodiment, the base portion 212 can include an opening 216.In one embodiment, the opening 216 can be configured to allow a view ofa sight glass from the front side 204 of the support member of 202. Inanother embodiment, the opening 216 can be of any size and/or shapesuitable to allow a sensor 208 to be disposed proximate a receptacle tofacilitate the sensing of a fluid level within a receptacle.

In another embodiment, the support member 202 can include a brace 214.In one embodiment, the brace (brace member) 214 can be configured toabout a receptacle. In another example, the brace 214 can be hingedlyconnected to the support member 202. For example, the support member 202can include holes 222 configured to align with eyes 234 of the brace,such that a bolt and/or hinge and/or rod or any other component can beinserted therethrough to accomplish the hinged coupling of the brace 214to support member 202. In another embodiment, the handle member 210 canbe configured to couple to the brace 214. For example, holes 222 can beincluded on the handle number 210 such that the brace 214 can be coupledthereto. In another embodiment, the brace member 214 can be coupled withone or both of the handle member 210 and/or the base member 212. Inanother embodiment, the brace member 114 can be any configurationsuitable to enable the brace member 214 to facilitate coupling of thesupport number 202 to a receptacle. In one embodiment, the brace member214 can be configured to mobilize towards the receptacle when thesupport member 202 is placed on the receptacle and subsequently coupledto the receptacle, such as via magnets, adhesive, or any other mechanismsuitable to allow the brace 214 to couple to the receptacle.

In another embodiment, the handle member 210 can be configured to coupleto the base member 212. For example, the handle member 210 can beconfigured to attach to the base number 212 via screws, bolts, adhesive,welding, or any other mechanism suitable to attach the handle member of210 to the base 212. In another embodiment, the handle number 210, basemember 212, and/or brace member 214 can be configured to couple with oneanother via any suitable mechanism, including adhesive, welding,magnets, screws, pins, or any other suitable mechanism.

In another embodiment, the support member 202 can be configured to houseelectronics. For example, the handle member 210 can be configured tohouse electronics. For example, the handle 210 can be hollow such thatone or more wires can be housed by the handle member 210. In anotherembodiment, base member 212 and/or brace 214 can be configured to houseelectronics. In another embodiment, the support member 202 can includeany other design and/or mechanism suitable to enable the support number202 to house and/or couple to electronics. For example, the supportnumber 202 can be coupled with a sensor 208. For example, the sensor of208 can utilize optics to detect a fluid level within a receptacle, suchas by sensing the fluid level through a sight glass. In one embodiment,the support member 202 can be configured to facilitate the sensing of afluid level by the sensor 208. For example, the opening 216 of the basemember 212 can be configured to allow the sensor 208 to view the sightglass through the base member 212. For example, the sensor 208 can beoriented such that a front portion 238 of the sensor 208 can facetowards the back side 206 of the support number 202. In one example, thesensor 208 can be coupled with the handle member 210, and the frontportion 238 of the sensor 208 can be oriented to face towards the backside 206 of the support member through the opening 216, such that thefront portion 238 of the sensor 208 can be proximate the sight glass.For example, the front portion 238 of the sensor 208 can include one ormore lenses, mirrors, reflectors, lasers, infrared detectors, or anyother components suitable to allow the sensor 208 to sense a fluid levelvia the front portion 238. In another embodiment, the sensor 208 can beconfigured to couple with the handle member 210 and receive wires orother circuitry (e.g., wire 236) that can be housed within the hollowhandle 220 of the handle member 210.

In another embodiment, the handle number 210 can include a protrusion218. for example, the handle member can include a protrusion 218 thatcan protrude away from the handle 220. In one embodiment, the protrusion218 can be configured to receive electronics. For example, wire 236 canthread through the protrusion 218 and into the hollow handle 220, suchas to supply power, data communication, or any other functionality tothe sensor 208. In another embodiment, the protrusion 218 can beconfigured to couple with the base member 212. For example, theprotrusion 218 can be configured to abut the base number 212 and couplethereto, such as via adhesive, welding, screws, or any other couplingmechanism suitable to couple the protrusion 218 to the base member 212.

In another embodiment, the base member 212 can be configured tofacilitate the coupling of the support member 202 to a receptacle. Forexample, the base member 212 can include magnets 228 that can facilitatethe coupling of the support member 202 to a receptacle. In anotherexample, the support number 212 can include apertures 224 configured toreceive magnets. In another embodiment, the base member can include anadhesive that can allow the base member and/or support member 202 tocouple to a receptacle. In another embodiment, the base member 212 caninclude one or more spacers 226. For example, spacers 226 can facilitatethe maintaining of a sensing distance and/or gap distance between thesensor 208 and the receptacle. For example, the sensor 208 can require acertain distance between the sight glass and the front portion 238 suchthat the sensor 208 can accurately detect a fluid level within thereceptacle. In one embodiment, the base member 212 and/or spacers 226thereon can ensure such a distance between the sensor 208 and the sightglass.

In another embodiment, the brace 214 can be configured to couple withthe support member 202 and enhance coupling stability of the supportmember 202 with the receptacle. For example, the brace 214 can includeone or more eyes 234 they can be configured to facilitate a hingecoupling between the support member 202 and the brace. Anotherembodiment, the brace can include any other design or mechanism suitableto enable the brace 214 to couple with support member 202 and facilitatethe stabilization of the support number 202 by the brace 214. In anotherembodiment, the brace can include a crossbar 232 they can attach to legs230 of the brace 214. for example, legs 230 can be configured tofacilitate the coupling of the brace 214 to the receptacle. In oneexample, legs 230 can be configured to receive and/or include magnetsthat can couple the brace 214 to the receptacle. In another embodiment,legs 230 can include adhesive, bolts, grips, pads, feet, or any othercomponent suitable to facilitate coupling of the brace to the receptacleand/or stabilization of the support member of 202 against the receptacleby the brace 214.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an intermediate member 300 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.Intermediate number 300 can include a front side 302, a back side 304, atop 310, and a bottom 312. In one embodiment, the front side 302 can beconfigured to receive and/or couple a sensor member. For example, thefront side 302 can include magnetically-active material 308 that can beconfigured to interact with magnets of the sensor member. For example,metal plates 308 can be affixed to the front side 302. In anotherembodiment, the front side 302 can include an indicator 306. Forexample, the indicator 306 can be a light configured to illuminate andindicate information about a system with which the intermediate number300 is connected. For example, the indicator 306 can illuminate when asystem is prepared to dispense a material. In another embodiment, theindicator 306 can switch off if the system is not ready to dispensematerial. In another embodiment, the indicator can be configured toconvey any sort of indication suitable to communicate informationregarding the system that the intermediate member 300 is a part of,and/or information about the intermediate member of 300. The indicator306 can be a light, a speaker, a vibration device, or any othercomponent suitable to communicate information. For example, theindicator 306 can flash in particular circumstances, change colors, makenoise, or otherwise communicate in any suitable manner.

In another embodiment, the intermediate member 300 can include a backside 304. For example, the back side 304 can be configured to couplewith a fluid line. For example, the backside 304 can be concave suchthat the backside 304 can receive a fluid line. In another embodiment,the backside can include adhesive, corrugation, embossing, clamps,grips, brackets, or any other components suitable to enable theintermediate member 300 to couple to a fluid line. In anotherembodiment, the intermediate member can include one or more brackets 318that can facilitate coupling of the intermediate member 300 to a fluidline. For example, tethers can be used to tie the brackets 318 to afluid line. In another example, the brackets can be any shape, design,or other component that can facilitate coupling of the intermediatemember 300 to a fluid line.

In another embodiment, the intermediate member 300 can be configured toconnect with a system, such as a fluid dispensing system, and/orcomponents thereof. For example, the intermediate member 300 can includeone or more apertures 314, 316, 320, 322 that can be configured toreceive, e.g., electronics and/or wires. For example, apertures 314,316, 320, 322 can be configured to allow access to the inside of theintermediate member, such as where electronic components can be housed.In another embodiment, the top 310 of the intermediate member 300 can beconfigured to facilitate communication of the intermediate member 300with, for example, a control panel. For example, the top 310 can includean aperture 314 through which electronics can communicate with internalcomponents of the intermediate member 300. In another embodiment, thebottom 312 of the intermediate number 300 can be configured tofacilitate communication of the intermediate member 300 with, forexample, a sensor. For example, the bottom 312 can include an aperture316 through which electronics can communicate with internal componentsof the intermediate member 300. In another example, the top 310 and/orbottom 312 can include any other design suitable to allow access tointernal components of their intermediate member 300 such that theintermediate member can participate in signaling within a fluiddispensing system. For example, the top and/or bottom 310, 312 caninclude antennas, cables, clamps, wires, or any other components and/ordesigns suitable to allow the intermediate member 300 to, for example,relay a signal from a sensor to a control panel or other controller. Inanother embodiment, a controller can be housed within the intermediatemember of 300, such that aperture 314 and/or 316 and/or 320 and/or 322can be used to access the controller.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary control panel 400 in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the controlpanel 400 can be a control panel like those known in the art. In anotherembodiment, the control panel 400 can be any housing, casing, box,container, or any other components suitable to house a controller and/orprocessor and/or memory and/or any other circuitry suitable to receivesignals from a sensor and utilize such signals to control operations ofa material dispensing system. In another embodiment, the control panel400 can include a front 402, two sides 404, 406, a top 408 and a bottom.In another embodiment, the control panel 400 can include an access point410 through which wires, circuitry, and/or other components can accessthe inside of the control panel 400 without opening the control panelfrom the front 402. In another embodiment, the control panel 400 can beconfigured to couple with a fueling crane, such as a fueling crane knownin the art. For example, a back of the control panel 400 can beconfigured to abut a fueling crane and couple thereto.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of method of fueling a vehicle 500in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Inone embodiment, a locomotive 502 can be stationary and prepared forfueling. In another embodiment, a fueling crane 504, such as a fuelingcrane known in the art, can be disposed proximate the locomotive 500. Inanother embodiment, the fueling crane 504 can be in operablecommunication with a fluid source (fuel source) 506. For example, thefueling crane 504 can be configured to transport fuel from the fluidsource 506 to the locomotive 502. In another embodiment, the fuel incrane 504 can include a fuel line 508 that can be configured to dispensefuel from the fuel source 506. In another embodiment, a nozzle 510 canbe coupled to the fuel line 508. In another embodiment, a sensor member512 can be coupled to a sight glass of a fuel tank of the locomotive502. In one embodiment, the sensor member 512 can be a sensor or sensormember in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Inanother embodiment, the sensor member 512 can be in operablecommunication with an intermediate member 514, such as via a cable 516.In another embodiment, the sensor member of 512 can be in operablecommunication with the intermediate member 514 via any suitablecommunication means, wired or wireless or both.

In one embodiment, the intermediate member 514 can be coupled with thefuel line 508. For example, the intermediate member 514 can be tetheredto the fuel line, adhere to the fuel line, or be coupled to the fuelline via any suitable mechanism. In another embodiment, the intermediatemember of 514 can be configured to receive the sensor member 512. Inanother embodiment, a control panel 520 can house a controllerconfigured to operate a valve of the fueling crane 504. For example, thecontrol panel 520 can include a controller configured to receive one ormore signals from the sensor (for example, as forwarded by theintermediate member of 514) and cause one or more valves of the fuelingcrane 504 to close upon reception of such signals. In anotherembodiment, the controller within the control panel 520 can beconfigured to communicate with electronics of the fueling crane suchthat the controller can indicate to the electronics the fueling cranethat fuel should be dispensed or that fuel dispensing should beterminated. In another embodiment, cable 518 can facilitatecommunication between the sensor member 500 and the control panel 520.For example, the sensor member of 512 can communicate with theintermediate member 514 via cable 516, and the intermediate member 514can relay information from the sensor member 500 to the control panel520 via cable 518. In another embodiment, the intermediate member 514can serve as an amplifier, and be configured to amplify a signalgenerated by the sensor member 512 to the control panel 520.

The present disclosure achieves at least the following advantages:

1. Preventing overfilling of receptacles via automated sight glassmonitoring;

2. Providing a sight glass monitor apparatus that can generate a signaland/or alert if a particular material level in a receptacle is detected;

3. Enhancing fuel dispensing by minimizing waste due to overfilling; and

4. Enhancing automatic shutoff technology by implementing a sight glassreader in operable communication with a controller that can beconfigured to communicate with fueling system infrastructure to shut offfuel flow.

The description in this patent document should not be read as implyingthat any particular element, step, or function can be an essential orcritical element that must be included in the claim scope. Also, none ofthe claims can be intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) with respect toany of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words“means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim,followed by a participle phrase identifying a function. Use of termssuch as (but not limited to) “mechanism,” “module,” “device,” “unit,”“component,” “element,” “member,” “apparatus,” “machine,” “system,”“processor,” “processing device,” or “controller” within a claim can beunderstood and intended to refer to structures known to those skilled inthe relevant art, as further modified or enhanced by the features of theclaims themselves, and can be not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

The disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departingfrom the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. For example, eachof the new structures described herein, may be modified to suitparticular local variations or requirements while retaining their basicconfigurations or structural relationships with each other or whileperforming the same or similar functions described herein. The presentembodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, the scope of theinventions can be established by the appended claims rather than by theforegoing description. All changes which come within the meaning andrange of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embracedtherein. Further, the individual elements of the claims are notwell-understood, routine, or conventional. Instead, the claims aredirected to the unconventional inventive concept described in thespecification.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sight glass monitor apparatus, the apparatuscomprising: a support member including a front side and a back side, thesupport member configured to couple to a receptacle having a sightglass; a sensor having a front portion and coupled to the supportmember; and a controller in operable communication with the sensor andconfigured to receive one or more signals from the sensor, wherein thesensor is configured to detect a level of a material in the receptaclevia the sight glass.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the supportmember includes a handle.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thesupport member includes a base portion having an opening.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 3, wherein the front portion of the sensor ispositioned to face toward the back side of the support member throughthe opening.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support member isconfigured to magnetically couple to the receptacle.
 6. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the support member further includes a hinged braceconfigured to abut the receptacle.
 7. A method of monitoring a level ofmaterial in a receptacle, the method comprising the steps of: orientinga sensor relative to a sight glass, wherein the sensor is configured todetect a material within the receptacle via the sight glass; depositinga material within the receptacle; generating at least one signal via thesensor in response to detection of the material; and transmitting the atleast one signal.
 8. The method of claim 7, further including the stepof terminating the depositing of material into the receptacle inresponse to the signal.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein the signal isan alert.
 10. The method of claim 7, further including the step ofreceiving the at least one signal via a controller.
 11. The method ofclaim 10, further including the step of initiating, via the controller,termination of the depositing of the material in response to the signal.12. The method of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured toinitiate operation of a valve to prevent depositing of the material intothe receptacle.
 13. The method of claim 7, wherein the material is fuel.14. A receptacle system for preventing overfilling, the systemcomprising: a receptacle having an interior, an exterior, and a sightglass configured to provide a view of the interior of the receptaclefrom the exterior of the receptacle; a sensor disposed proximate theexterior of the receptacle and configured to detect a material on theinterior of the receptacle via the sight glass; and a controller inoperable communication with the sensor and configured to receive atleast one signal from the sensor.
 15. The system of claim 14, whereinthe controller, in response to the at least one signal, is configured togenerate an alert.
 16. The system of claim 14, wherein the controller,in response to the at least one signal, is further configured toinitiate shutoff of fluid dispensing to the receptacle.
 17. The systemof claim 14, wherein the sensor is operably coupled to a support memberconfigured to support the sensor proximate the exterior of thereceptacle.
 18. The system of claim 14, further comprising anintermediate member in operable communication with the sensor and thecontroller.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the intermediate memberis coupled to a fuel line.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein theintermediate member is configured to receive the sensor.